A wedding cake can mean different things to different couples. For some it is the actual dessert and will be eaten as the finishing touch to their wonderful meal. To others, it is a centrepiece, a talking point, an edible piece of art that will stop the guests in their tracks.
As a wedding couple, it will be your decision as to the import your wedding cake will carry. In light of that, here are some factors that you should take into account from the very beginning of your wedding planning journey.
Budget
It is so easy to get carried away and collect images from everywhere, hoping to create the wedding cake of dreams. However, in the same way that you research the venue and the other elements that will add to your day, and set budgets for each, a realistic budget needs to be set for the cake. The cost of a wedding cake varies enormously, depending on the size, the complexity of the design and the type of ingredients used. On average, prices range between £350 – £1000 but in some cases, they can be even higher. The more personalised and custom the cake is, the higher the cost may be. Ensure you have applied the same principles to setting your cake budget as you do with other elements.
Number of guests
I am often asked whether every guest needs to be catered for with regard to the cake. Certainly, if it is to be served as dessert, it should be assumed every guest should have a piece. In general, there perhaps should be sufficient cake to ensure every guest is able to have a slice and there are some one who will have extra, especially if the tiers are different flavours.
For a smaller wedding, maybe a dessert table type option with a small cutting cake will provide for everyone’s’ needs. For the larger weddings extra slices can be created by using a tray bake hidden out of the sight in the kitchen.
Ordering the cake
A wedding cake should be ordered at least 9-12 months in advance of your day. Many couples book their suppliers as soon as the venue is booked and that is preferable as it secures the suppliers you choose rather than a second option. For a cake artist it allows time to organise tastings, have design discussions and trials for anything that is out of the ordinary.
Design
Choose the style of cake best suited to the ambience you are looking to create. Whatever vibe you are seeking, there will be a style of cake that will fit your theme and look as though it belongs there too. Also take into account the likely weather conditions as some cakes do not suit the warmer temperatures.
There are a variety of styles available and these are some general ideas to help:
- Boho / Rustic – this often applies to naked or semi naked cakes. These are very popular creating a natural look but are best when dressed, whether that be with fruit, flowers or other personal items.
- Traditional – this often applies to cakes that are covered in sugar paste, ganache or buttercream (weather permitting), keeping a simple classic look with some decoration. This could include sugar flowers, fresh florals, stencilling or simple elements.
- Vintage – creating a retro feel either with the Lambeth style or using soft old-world piping.
Modern – creating strong and contemporary shapes for a bold look. This sometimes involves metallic colours or unique textures.
Flavours
It is important for couples to take into account their own personal tastes, whilst also considering the options for their guests. There are so many flavours available and some may be more suited to a particular time of the year. Your cake artist should offer guidance with the pairings not only of the sponge flavours but also the fillings. It is also an opportunity to ask about a flavour that may not be on the menu. There should always be an opportunity to taste your choices and be wary if that service is not offered.
Cake coverings
Because buttercream is a weather dependant option, chocolate ganache has become a popular alternative alongside the sugar paste option.
Buttercream remains a staple favourite and can be textured to create effect. But it is temperamental in the warner weather and chocolate ganache has gained favour with more stability.
Sugar paste has a smooth finish and ensures an aesthetic to a traditional cake that is not always achievable with other mediums. Couples raise a concern that they have not enjoyed sugar paste cakes, so it is always worth asking to taste the sugar paste too, as the professional brands have come a long way in recent times.
Delivery options
It is worth reminding you that lots of time, consideration and effort goes into the creation of every wedding cake from both you and your cake artist. However, it remains a food item and as such there is a delicacy to it and the movement of it.
Most cake artists offer a delivery option which includes the set-up of the cake and the application of the finishing touches. For most this is preferable as they are experienced in relation to the transportation of such delicate items and it also alleviates the stress of a third-party involvement on what should be the biggest day of your life. At the same time, any storage requirements can be discussed and proper arrangements put in place where necessary.
Final thoughts
There are some final elements that are worth thinking about:
What are you placing your cake on? Does the stand provided by the venue suit the aesthetic you want to achieve? Most cake artists hold a number of stand options so talk to them about them and get some guidance.
Does the cake table require any additional dressing? Sometimes it is a large space with a small cake, made to look overwhelmed by the space surrounding it. Often the addition of simple items can reduce the space and enhance your cake.
When will the cake be cut and does the venue know how it should be cut properly? The size of the wedding cakes is calculated by the portion numbers required and if it is being served as a dessert that is vitally important. Cutting a cake too late in the evening, creates the risk that it will not be eaten and the couple are left with an abundance of cake (not a problem in my house).
Are there any special elements on your cake that you wish to keep as a memorable item? This includes silk ribbons, elements from your parents wedding cake, specially made toppers. Ensure that specific information is given for these to be retained for you.
And after all of that……………
This is your day, one of the biggest celebrations you will share together. How your wedding cake is planned and designed is part of that process, and should be a fun and enjoyable process for all. As a cake artist it is an absolute highlight to see the images as your cake is cut, or when it is seen for the first time and to know that all of our efforts were enjoyed.
With love
Julie x